Massage is one of the most effective procedures for relieving tension, improving blood circulation and overall strengthening of the body, writes IZ. However, some people after a massage encounter an unpleasant phenomenon – itching. Why does this happen and how to deal with it? Let's look at the main reasons and possible ways to solve this problem.
Content
- The main causes of itching after massage
- 1. Improves blood circulation
- 2. Skin reaction to mechanical stress
- 3. Allergy to oils or creams
- 4. Elimination of toxins
- 5. Dry skin
- 6. Enhanced nervous system function
- How to avoid itching after massage in the future?
- What to do if you itch after a massage?
- 1. Take a cool shower
- 2. Use moisturizer
- 3. Change the massage oil
- 4. Drink more water
- 5. Do a light self-massage or stretch
- 6. Make sure you use the correct massage technique
- 7. Take an antihistamine
- When should you see a doctor?
The main causes of itching after massage
1. Improves blood circulation
One of the most common causes of itching is increased blood flow. Massage helps dilate blood vessels, increasing blood circulation, which can cause a tingling sensation and itching. This is a completely natural reaction of the body, which disappears after a while.
2. Skin reaction to mechanical stress
The skin is sensitive to physical impact, especially if the massage is performed intensively or with the use of additional devices. This can lead to irritation of the nerve endings, which causes itching.
3. Allergy to oils or creams
If oils, creams, or gels are used during the massage, you may be having an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients. The itching in this case may be accompanied by redness or a rash.
4. Elimination of toxins
Massage helps to speed up the removal of toxins and waste from the body. These can irritate nerve endings, causing itching. This is especially true for deep massage and lymphatic drainage procedures.
5. Dry skin
If you have dry skin, the friction during a massage can lead to moisture loss and an itchy feeling. This often happens during the cold season, when skin is especially prone to dryness.
6. Enhanced nervous system function
After a massage, the nervous system is activated, which can cause temporary increased skin sensitivity and itching. This is especially true for people who have vegetative-vascular dystonia or increased nervous excitability.
How to avoid itching after massage in the future?
To prevent itching after a massage, you can follow a few simple recommendations:
- Choose quality massage products. Use natural oils without fragrances and chemical additives.
- Moisturize your skin beforehand. If you have dry skin, apply moisturizer 30 minutes before your massage.
- Drink plenty of water. This will help flush out toxins faster and reduce possible side effects.
- Cleanse your skin thoroughly. Shower after the massage to remove any remaining oils and creams that may be causing itching.
- Adjust the intensity of the massage. If your skin is too sensitive, ask the masseur to use gentler movements.
What to do if you itch after a massage?
If itching after a massage bothers you, here are some recommendations to reduce discomfort:
1. Take a cool shower
Cool water will help soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and remove any remaining oils or creams that may have caused a reaction.
2. Use moisturizer
If the cause of itching is dry skin, apply a moisturizer or natural oil (such as coconut or olive) after the massage.
3. Change the massage oil
If you suspect an allergic reaction, try changing the oil or cream to hypoallergenic products.
4. Drink more water
Since massage helps to eliminate toxins, drinking enough water will help cleanse the body faster and reduce the negative effects.
5. Do a light self-massage or stretch
This will help relieve muscle tension and evenly distribute blood circulation, which can reduce itching.
6. Make sure you use the correct massage technique
If you regularly experience itching after a massage, you should consult an experienced massage therapist. It is possible that the technique is being performed too intensively or with the wrong pressure.
7. Take an antihistamine
If the itching is very severe and accompanied by a rash, you can take an antihistamine (as recommended by your doctor).
When should you see a doctor?
In most cases, itching after a massage is a temporary phenomenon that quickly passes. However, you should consult a doctor if:
- itching does not go away within several days;
- severe redness, rash or blisters appeared on the skin;
- you feel dizzy, weak, or have other unusual symptoms.
We remind you that we previously wrote about how to understand that you have an allergy: the main signs and methods of diagnosis